Jan. 20, 2016

By Christine Woodley
Contributing writer

Seven members of St. Mary's and St. John's Youth Group of Clayton headed by Christine Woodley and Tim Orvis along with seven members of the Catholic Communities of Cape Vincent, Rosiere, and Chaumont headed by Sharon Turner had the opportunity to attend the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) in Indianapolis Nov. 19-22.

Each day began and ended with general sessions in the Lucas Oil Stadium with keynote speakers and inspirational interactive music.

During the day, the teens and adults chose from a vast variety of activities including workshops on various topics, opportunities to meet with bishops and ask questions, visiting booths of various vendors ranging from music to information on vocations, and making confession.

The youth and adults mingled and exchanged hats and pins with 23,000 other youth from all 50 states.

The conference ended with an anticipated Mass with a procession of approximately 200 deacons, seminarians, priests, and bishops.

Two girls from Clayton shared their reaction to the experience:
“The reason I went to NCYC was because when I went two years ago I wanted to go again because I loved the experience,” said Claire Sheley. “I love going there because everyone is so joyful and happy and expresses the love of God. I wish I could be more like that but living here sometimes not everyone understands God and my love for church.

“My favorite part about going to NCYC was the music, especially Matt Maher,” Claire said. “Also I loved going to confession. I didn't really know what I was doing but it's OK because the priest helped me. It felt so good to be cleansed of all my sins after and go to the prayer room and pray after.

“I hope to spread the love of God throughout church and attend church more often,” she said.
Hannah Woodley said, “My NCYC experience was incredible. I had so much fun with three of my closest friends and really got a lot out of it.

“The adoration was my favorite part because it was so silent and you could really feel the Holy Spirit over everyone there,” she said. “It is a great experience for anyone.”